When most of us hear "worth," we often think about value. Value can come in the form of money or material appraisals, but it can also be deeply personal—like that heirloom your grandma passed down through generations.
Lately, I've been reflecting on the cost of untreated conditions. Think about impulsive purchases, missed career opportunities, strained relationships, and declining physical health. All of these are potential consequences of untreated mental health conditions.
On the flip side, there’s immense value in addressing these issues and improving one’s quality of life.
Take ADHD, for example. Many people go undiagnosed and untreated because they’ve developed strategies to cope with their symptoms. This can seem like a win, but getting a proper diagnosis brings much more. It’s like trying to treat diabetes with painkillers or a toothache with foot surgery—misguided at best, and ineffective at worst.
Here’s why an accurate ADHD diagnosis is invaluable:
Self-Understanding
A diagnosis provides clarity. It stops the endless wondering—why can’t I do this? Why is that so hard? This level of self-awareness not only saves you mental energy but can also improve your relationships.
Targeted Treatment
ADHD presents differently in everyone—factors like age, gender, and life experience play a role. It also shares symptoms with conditions like depression, anxiety, and complex PTSD, which can lead to a misdiagnosis. Getting an accurate diagnosis ensures the right treatment, focusing on what will make the greatest impact on your life.
Improved Quality of Life
There’s a saying: "What is measured, improves." Diagnosis is a form of measurement. It’s not something to fear or avoid. When ADHD is recognized, it becomes something you can work on—and that brings relief. It’s not about just “willing” yourself through life anymore; it’s about managing it in a way that reduces stress and frustration.
Release the Guilt
How often do you feel guilty for leaving things undone? Whether it’s household chores or failing to provide timely updates at work, the uneasiness can spiral into a vicious cycle of self-blame. A diagnosis won’t be an excuse, but it will offer a pathway to understanding and improvement, helping to lift the burden of guilt
Proper diagnosis isn’t just about putting a name to your experience. It can help prevent anxiety, substance use disorders, broken relationships, and even poor health. The right diagnosis brings access to tailored resources, improves executive functioning skills, and reduces the emotional burden of living with uncertainty, guilt, or feelings of unworthiness.
In short, a proper ADHD diagnosis is worth it. It opens the door to treatment, understanding, and, ultimately, a better life.
Brandy Butler, NBC-HWC
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